2025 Subaru WRX
Common problems & what to know before you buy
Before you message the seller, know the documented failure patterns, repair cost exposure, and risk level for the 2025 Subaru WRX.
What to watch for on the 2025 Subaru WRX
FA24 Tuning Risks
The FA24 responds very well to tuning (350+ whp easily), but tuning the ECU voids the warranty and can stress the drivetrain. Many owners tune — verify the car's history before buying used.
SPT CVT Hesitation
The Subaru Performance Transmission (CVT) can feel hesitant in stop-and-go traffic. The simulated shift points help but it's not a traditional automatic. The manual is the enthusiast choice.
1 more known problem on the 2025 WRX
Your guide shows all of them and which apply to the exact car, and what to ask the seller.
2025 Subaru WRX price ranges
The manual GT/TR trims are the enthusiast picks. The base Premium with manual is the best value. Depreciation has been moderate. The SPT CVT negatively impacts resale.
What 3 owners reported
Source: NHTSA
2025 Subaru WRX at a glance
- Trims
- BaseGTLimitedPremiumTR
- Engine
- 2.4L Flat-4 Turbo
- Transmission
- Manual 6-spd, CVT
- Drivetrain
- AWD
- Fuel
- Gasoline
- Body style
- Sedan
Subaru WRX (VB) Buyer's Guide
The Modern Performance Sedan
The VB WRX (2022+) moved to Subaru's global platform with a revised chassis, the new FA24 engine, and controversial plastic cladding. It's more refined, stiffer, and more capable than the VA — but the cladding styling is divisive.
Powertrain: The 2.4L FA24 turbo (271 hp, 258 lb-ft) with 6-speed manual or Subaru Performance Transmission (SPT) — a CVT with simulated shifts. The FA24 has more displacement than the VA's FA20, providing better torque and tune-ability. The STI was discontinued for this generation — no EJ257.
What to look for: Too new for major issues. The FA24 is proving reliable. The 6-speed manual has revised gearing. The SPT CVT is better than previous CVTs but still not a traditional automatic. The plastic cladding can be paint-matched aftermarket. The 2024 model added EyeSight to the manual transmission — a first for Subaru.
About the VB
The 2022-present Subaru WRX (VB generation) represents a significant shift for the model, moving to the Subaru Global Platform and replacing the long-running EJ-series engine with a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four (FA24). This generation is offered exclusively as a four-door sedan, with all variants pairing a symmetrical all-wheel-drive system with either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT-equipped cars receive a dedicated “GT” trim with adaptive dampers, while manual cars are available in Base, Premium, and Limited trims. A limited-run Kansei Edition added unique exterior touches and Enkei wheels.
Compared to the preceding VA generation, the VB WRX delivers more power (271 hp) and torque (258 lb-ft) from the new engine, though it retains a traditional turbocharged character with some lag. The switch to the Global Platform improves chassis rigidity and ride comfort, but the interior materials remain budget-oriented, and the plastic cladding on the wheel arches has drawn mixed reactions. No STI variant has been offered for this generation.
As a used buy, the 2022-2024 Subaru WRX suits buyers who want a practical, all-weather-capable performance sedan with a manual transmission option. Its reputation is solid for driving engagement and reliability, though the CVT's driving feel continues to polarize purists. Overall, it remains a focused, no-nonsense choice in the compact sport-compact segment.
Other Subaru WRX years
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Frequently asked questions
Is the VB WRX better than the VA?
Objectively yes — stiffer chassis, better engine (FA24 > FA20), more torque, and better suspension geometry. The VA has the better front-end styling (no cladding). Driving-wise, the VB is superior.
Should I buy the manual or SPT CVT?
The manual is the enthusiast choice — Subaru's 6-speed is excellent. The SPT is acceptable for daily commuting but dull. The manual will hold value significantly better.
Squeezed is a buyer guide based on public data and industry patterns, not a mechanical inspection. Always get a professional pre-purchase inspection before you buy.